Mechanical behavior of materials is critical to the performance of electrochemical energy storage over multiple length scales from nanoscale to system level. The mechanical properties of materials and devices strongly interplay with chemical, thermal and other material properties in energy storage devices, which collectively determines their performance and robustness, such as cycle life, power density, energy density, and durability against deformation and impact.

In the last few years, we have witnessed a huge wave of fundamental studies in unraveling the mechanical behavior of energy storage materials, and its coupling with chemical, electrochemical and thermal processes. These studies include simulations across multi-scales, transmission electron microscopy and Synchrotron imaging at nanoscale, and mechanical and fatigue analysis at macro-scale. The fundamental understanding has been transformed to exciting progresses in material and device developments, such as new electrode materials with high capacity (e.g. Li, Si), solid state electrolytes and batteries, structural batteries which can also function as structural components, flexible and stretchable batteries, and new cell and pack designs.

The symposium will highlight current progress of advanced experimental and computational methodologies in understanding and improving the mechanical behaviors of electrochemical materials for energy storage and their interaction with other important processes, including but not limited to chemical, electrochemical and thermal processes. It is intended to bring experts from materials science, mechanical engineering, chemistry, and other relevant disciplines to review current state of art and formulate the outstanding research needs and grand challenges for next-generation energy storage technologies.

defects diffusion ductility electrodeposition fracture interface Li phase transformation Si